New blog bridges the gap between glass science and new lighting technologies in the interest of sharing knowledge to create a safer and more productive world.
The introduction of new light-based technologies brings both exciting benefits and complex challenges to lighting engineers. Traditional designs and materials do not fully leverage the energy savings of these new light sources. Lighting engineers eager to harness these new technologies often struggle to incorporate them into their design because they don’t have the specialized technical or manufacturing experience to address these challenges. Fundamental research at industrial laboratories, such as Bell Labs, has declined since the mid-1980s. Manufacturers are operating on tighter budgets in an effort to realize higher margins. Corporate research facilities have been shuttered and scientists have relocated to smaller research firms. As a result, manufacturers are no longer able to solve many of these problems internally. And often times, they’re forced to come up with solutions that they’re not best equipped to solve.
To adapt and leverage these new technologies, they must look outside their organization to answer questions like:
“My sensor is extremely sensitive – how do I transmit or absorb light at this exact wavelength to reduce noise?” “Should I use white or colored LEDs to meet FAA or MIL color specifications?” “What’s the best lens cover for a light installed in a corrosive marine environment? How do I ensure performance?” “What’s LED binning and how can I ensure consistent color temperature from lot to lot?” “Can I retrofit my existing fixture for LED?” “I need to achieve the highest efficiency possible - how can I increase the level of transmission from my light fixture?”
Many of these questions are echoes of questions we’ve heard in the past and continue to hear on a daily basis. When precision glass is needed for demanding applications like explosion proof lighting or exterior aircraft lighting, engineers without glass expertise are challenged to answer these questions. Unfortunately, in some industries, collaboration through the supply chain is often limited and engineers are prohibited from engaging with their suppliers. They aren’t able to ask these questions and as a result the product development cycle is subject to time-consuming redesigns and increased costs. These questions and challenges will only increase as new technologies emerge and continue to disrupt the lighting market.
Readily Accessible Intellectual Capital
Our customers come to us because there is a lack of glass manufacturing knowledge that is easily accessible. We operate in a highly specialized niche of the glass industry and have worked very hard to develop a team of creative, highly-motivated, and skilled people. They are the foundation of Kopp Glass and without their expertise and knowledge – we wouldn’t be able to produce high-quality precision glass products. We realize that this knowledge is unique and we’re excited to share it with a broader audience through our new blog, Glass Transforming Light.
Introducing: Glass Transforming Light
At the heart of this blog is a team of passionate and innovative glass scientists and engineers who seek to collaborate to create the best lighting products in the world. Our mission is to make the world safer and more productive through excellence in glass science, collaborative innovation, and the production of glass for unique and demanding applications.
Our blog will bridge the gap between glass science and new technological advancements. Twice a month, we’ll share articles that:
- Explain the fundamentals of glass material science, optics and photonics, and other emerging material research
- Explore innovative lighting, manufacturing, and material fabrication technologies,
- Share real-world applications that are creating a better and brighter world, and
- Comment on industry developments and news.
In the face of continual advancements in lighting technology, materials, and fundamental research, you must anticipate instead of react to the changes and needs of your markets. We’ll share information that will help you be both nimble and proactive to these challenges. Please explore our blog and subscribe to receive updates. We’re entering a new lighting era that is full of exciting opportunities and we’re eager to explore the world of glass and light with you.
